In our last post before Christmas, I’d like to give you some links for things to read, listen to, buy responsibly, and give towards that will empower refugees in 2018!

Looking for really practical tips for how you can be a welcomer this December? Look no further than the list of 30 ideas for welcoming refugees during the holidays from Tabitha McDuffee at Faith and Forced Migration Blog (by the way, these ideas apply to immigrants in general, not just refugees). Also check out her follow-up post for a few more tips.

Looking for last minute Christmas gifts for friends and loved ones? Consider buying gifts that give back to refugees, such as Preemptive Love Coalition or Begin Anew Refugee Artisan Group or  Vickery Trading Co.

Looking for a worthy cause to contribute your year-end giving to? I’ve recently been learning more about the incredible ministry of For the Nations Refugee Outreach in Dallas, TX, which empowers refugees in the areas of Education, Acculturation, and the Gospel.

They have raised 98% of their funding needs for their new facility, which will enable a whole new season of ministry to begin, including eliminating their long waiting lists and starting a church plant which will use Easy English for services and a variety of languages for Sunday schools–a place where refugees can find a church home. Consider giving a gift of any size to help them raise the final 2% to make this dream of expanded ministry a reality!

Looking for something to listen to while you clean your house for company? Check out the “Empowering Refugee Women” with Stephanie Giddens on the God Centered Mom Podcast (the women they talk about work at Vickery Trading Co., mentioned above!).

Merry Christmas from Loving the Stranger Blog! Immanuel is WITH us–when we welcome, we are following in His footsteps and empowered by His ever-present grace.

P.S. Make sure you’re subscribed to the blog so you don’t miss a special gift coming your way just before the New Year!